Overview

At a conference held on 13 October 2011, UK Information Commissioner Christopher Graham announced that he is actively pursuing the ability to undertake mandatory audits for the private sector, which will mean that all companies will be legally obliged to allow the ICO to conduct an audit of their data protection compliance.

The move comes after the annual report of the Information Commissioner's Office noted a low uptake in private sector businesses agreeing to voluntary data protection compliance audits by the ICO. Subsequently, the ICO continued to seek 'sharper teeth' to ensure organisations are accountable for compliance.

This briefing details the current powers of audit, the future powers of private sector compulsory audits and recommendations to businesses.

Click 'View Briefing' to read on.